It is hard to tell. If you had VZW, and activation of a stolen phone is impossible, you could always call ahead with the ESN and have them run it. With ATT, you theoretically could use a stolen phone without anyone noticing. I know, because a former friend of mine was using a stolen Treo on ATT in the past, with no problems (besides moral and ethical).

Jerzey Jon, I am trying save money on a phone that I am going to use a month or two...assuming the Bold comes out by then. The used 8310 on Craigslist is $250 compared to $350 from ATT.

Thatzmister...thanks for the link.

You might also try the WTS Section here. You can look at a members feedback and get some additional reassurance. I have bought a device here. If you are buying off of craigslist I would not but unless they can provide Ebay feedback.

I bought my 8310 from at&t for $99, after a $100 rebate. So with all the reasurance I get for buying straight from at&t and it only being $100 in the long run, I would say straight from the carrier is the way to go.

True, buying from the carrier is a good deal and the only way to be 100% positive the BB isn't stolen. But the OP stated he wanted to save his upgrade for the Bold. Buying used is a great idea but always risky. Try getting the IMEI number from the seller and see if Verizon can verify it's not stolen.

I bought my 8310 from at&t for $99, after a $100 rebate. So with all the reasurance I get for buying straight from at&t and it only being $100 in the long run, I would say straight from the carrier is the way to go.

Same here, although AT&T has not sent me my $100 rebate card yet! Them stingy rascals.